Assessing Core Affective Dimensions in OCD: Development and Validation of the Obsessive–Compulsive Core Dimensions Scale (OC‐CDS)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a complex condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions driven by different affective dimensions, including guilt, disgust and not just right experiences (NJREs). However, research has often examined these factors separately, without analysing their interaction. To address this gap, we developed and validated the Obsessive-Compulsive Core Dimensions Scale (OC-CDS), a self-report measure designed to simultaneously assess guilt avoidance, disgust avoidance and NJRE avoidance that drive OCD symptoms. Two studies conducted on Italian non-clinical samples confirmed the factorial validity and psychometric robustness of the OC-CDS. The first study refined the scale to 18 items, revealing a three-factor structure with excellent fit indices. The second study confirmed this structure through confirmatory factor analysis, demonstrating good reliability, temporal stability, construct and predictive validity. The findings support the use of the OC-CDS for a more comprehensive assessment of the affective motivations underlying OCD, with clinical implications for personalized interventions. Future research should explore the applicability of the scale in clinical settings and the role of interactions among these dimensions in maintaining OCD symptoms. SUMMARY: The Obsessive-Compulsive Core Dimensions Scale (OC-CDS) is a validated self-report tool that assesses three key affective dimensions underlying OCD: guilt avoidance, disgust avoidance and not just right experiences (NJREs). The OC-CDS demonstrated strong psychometric properties, including a stable three-factor structure, high internal consistency and moderate test-retest reliability. The scale provides a more comprehensive assessment of OCD-related motivations, allowing clinicians to tailor interventions based on the predominant emotional drivers of compulsive behaviours. Future research should validate the OC-CDS in clinical populations and explore the interactions among guilt, disgust and NJRE in maintaining OCD symptoms.